A discovery further propelled Hilton’s interest in fitness. While working as a graphic designer, she learned about opportunities to fight with swords.

“Even though I thought I was in good shape, I was not (in) good enough shape to do what I needed to do in full-plate armor,” Hilton said. “So, I went full time as a professional trainer — quit everything, changed my job, changed my life — to just do sword fighting.”

Now, Hilton works as a sword instructor and fitness trainer in the Tall City. She feels passionate about her two lines of work.

“I enjoy helping people,” Hilton said. “Any success that I get from my clients — seeing the smile, seeing us reach that goal — it makes me so proud of them.”

Last month, Hilton displayed her sword skills on a TV competition show. She confronted challenges on “Forged in Fire: Knife or Death,” a History network series.

“Obstacle courses are fun,” she said before the episode aired. “It’s like a playground of things to wreck with your sword.”

For the competition, Hilton used a custom, hand-forged blade, according to a previous Reporter-Telegram story. She and a swordsmith determined a weapon with a 13th-century falchion design could handle obstacle course challenges, such as cutting fruits and PVC pipe.

Hilton, who didn’t win the $20,000 prize, said she enjoyed meeting other show participants and discussing their shared interests. While going through the obstacle course, she said her focus shifted away from her competitors.

“I find my biggest competition is myself — it’s my mindset,” she told the Reporter-Telegram last month. “I know that’s what a lot of people say. But setting limitations for yourself can hold you back.”

In her path toward developing blade-wielding skills, Hilton studied at the Davenriche European Martial Artes School in California. Steaphen Fick, owner and head instructor, remembers his former student’s dedication.

“Skye is one of these people who always wants to push herself to be better,” Fick said in a phone interview.

When Hilton moved to West Texas, she noticed the absence of a sword school and decided to start a Davenriche location in Midland. For safety, students start learning with sword-shaped wood pieces and wear protective gear while using steel weapons.

The instruction is based on interpretations of 15th and 16th century manuscripts, a topic Hilton has studied across the United States and abroad. Midlanders have shown interest in the local school, where Hilton said they can find camaraderie and build confidence.

“They may have never played a sports game in their life, but they can pick up that sword and go to tournaments and win or meet other people,” said Hilton, who has led classes at MLK Community Center since March.

Hilton’s interest in making a difference in the lives of others extends to fitness training. At Iron Will Strength Gym on West Scharbauer Drive, she works with clients who want to lose weight, improve their nutrition or recover from injuries.

“It’s one of those things where if I could do it for free, I would do it for free,” Hilton said. “I love helping people fall in love with themselves.”